Elastically Deformable Toy Glider Frame for Self-Propelled Launch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional toy gliders often require precise hand-launching techniques, which can be challenging for younger children, and suffer from durability issues due to impact damage during free flight.
Innovation Solution
A toy glider with an elastically deformable frame that stores spring energy for self-propelled launch, using a flexible frame constructed from materials like spring-steel or fiberglass, allowing for easier launching and enhanced durability through elastic deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional rigid frame toy gliders are used, then structural strength is maintained, but launching requires precise hand-launching techniques and suffers from impact damage during free flight
Solution Approach 1:
The frame material properties are changed from rigid to elastically deformable, allowing the frame to temporarily change its physical state during launch and impact. This parameter change enables the frame to store and release elastic energy for self-propelled launch while absorbing impact forces during flight, resolving both the launching ease and durability issues
Solution Approach 2:
The elastically deformable frame provides beforehand cushioning by being pre-designed to absorb impact forces through elastic deformation. This prior cushioning capability protects the glider structure from damage during free flight without requiring additional protective components, thereby improving reliability while maintaining ease of operation
2Ease of operation
If elastically deformable frame is used, then self-propelled launch and impact absorption are achieved, but frame structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The frame transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic elastically deformable structure that can adapt its stiffness characteristics during different phases of operation. During launch, the frame deforms to generate propelling force; during flight, it absorbs impacts; and during normal operation, it maintains sufficient structural strength through elastic recovery
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is constructed from composite materials or materials with specific elastic properties that combine the necessary strength and flexibility. These materials allow the frame to exhibit both strength for structural integrity and elastic deformability for self-propelled launch and impact absorption, resolving the apparent contradiction between strength and operational capability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The elastically deformable frame enables a self-propelled launch with less user finesse, providing longer flights and increased durability by absorbing impact forces, making the glider safer and more accessible for children.
Implementation Method 1
At least a portion the frame can elastically deform to provide spring energy for self-propelling the toy glider during a launch
Implementation Method 2
The elastically deformable frame enables a self-propelled launch with less user finesse, providing longer flights and increased durability by absorbing impact forces
Data Source
AI summary
A self-propelled toy glider includes a flexible frame and a flight surface. The flexible frame may be deformed and held within the user's hand. When deformed, the flexible frame stores spring energy. This spring energy is subsequently used to propel the self-propelled toy glider forward as it returns to original shape.